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- What Defines a Thriving Relationship? Let’s Explore!
by Alex Carter
Updated: Dec. 13, 2021
Originally Published: Sep. 17, 2021
What does a nurturing, enduring relationship look like? Movies and television have long suggested that it must be filled with endless passion or drama, leading us to believe that if we don’t experience grand romantic gestures regularly, something is amiss. But are these really the hallmarks of a flourishing relationship? Surely, there’s more to it!
Spoiler alert: There is indeed much more to a healthy relationship than the exaggerated portrayals you see on screens. Building loving relationships requires effort. While each partnership is unique — as every couple has its own dynamic — here are some key traits to cultivate in your healthy relationship and how to exemplify these qualities for your children.
Key Traits of a Thriving Relationship
1. Mutual Respect
Demonstrating that you value your partner, their individuality, feelings, and needs is crucial. This respect is particularly important during disagreements. It’s completely acceptable to agree to disagree, acknowledging that you are distinct individuals with different perspectives.
How to embody it: Cultivate respect by actively listening, communicating calmly and directly, and showing appreciation for your partner.
2. Trust in Each Other
Trust is fundamental for any relationship to thrive. Partners should feel secure sharing their innermost thoughts and feelings while also allowing each other the necessary space.
How to embody it: Build trust by allowing vulnerability and extending the benefit of the doubt to your partner.
3. Honesty With One Another
Closely linked to trust is honesty. Healthy partners are open with each other and don’t conceal their feelings. While expressing true emotions can be daunting, harboring guilt from dishonesty can weaken a relationship. As Dr. Maria Lawson notes, “Truth should be conveyed with love and compassion.”
How to embody it: Foster honesty by being reliable (doing what you say you will do), communicating clearly, and avoiding judgment.
4. Effective Communication
The foundation of trust and honesty is effective communication. Clearly articulate expectations and needs, collaborate on plans, and regularly check in on each other.
How to embody it: Enhance communication by being trustworthy, honest, and respectful. Make time for open-ended discussions, observe body language, and resist the urge to assume you know what your partner is thinking.
5. Viewing Your Partner as Your Best Friend
Many relationships begin with friendship, which can serve as a strong basis for a lasting partnership. Ultimately, you may come to view your partner — quirks and all — as your best friend, which fosters a robust bond.
How to embody it: Develop this friendship by being your partner’s support system and cherishing shared moments.
6. Celebrating Each Other’s Successes
Rejoice in each other’s accomplishments, whether big or small. “A healthy relationship values not only who you are together but also who you are as individuals,” emphasizes Dr. Lawson.
How to embody it: Show genuine interest in what makes your partner unique and be enthusiastic about their successes.
Additional Traits of a Healthy Relationship
The indicators of a robust relationship extend beyond these six. Clinical psychologist Jenna Reed outlines other vital aspects:
- You can identify the important people in your partner’s life.
- You hold your partner’s ideas in high regard.
- You share a playful dynamic.
- You think of each other when apart.
- You possess a positive view of your partner.
- You can name a few of your partner’s favorite books.
- You recall shared experiences that were challenging yet meaningful.
- You know what makes your partner feel embarrassed.
- You rarely resort to insults or dismiss their feelings.
- If you share a child, you can identify positive qualities in them that reflect your partner.
- You frequently express appreciation for one another.
Struggling with Healthy Relationships?
If your relationship doesn’t seem to tick all the boxes for a healthy partnership, don’t feel disheartened. Every relationship, even the healthy ones, requires significant effort and mutual commitment. If you find yourself consistently grappling with healthy relationships, there may be deeper issues at play:
- Are you distrustful?
- Do you tend to please others to earn love?
- Are you avoidant due to past pains?
- Are you constantly anxious about rejection?
- Do you fluctuate between being needy and emotionally distant?
Consider these signs in your relationship:
- Do you or your partner attempt to change one another?
- Is there a sense of imbalance in control?
- Are your boundaries respected?
- Does your partner say hurtful things to you?
- Is your voice valued in the relationship?
- Do you hesitate to express yourself?
As Sherry Gaba, LCSW, advises, “Recognizing these patterns can be challenging, but change is possible if you’re willing to acknowledge the issues and strive for healthier behaviors.”
Expert Insight
Steer clear of online checklists that label relationships as unhealthy or toxic. “Such lists risk fostering a victim mentality, which can hinder all current and future relationships,” says Dr. Steven Stosny. Instead, focus on understanding that every relationship is unique, and approach challenges with respect.
As you reflect on your closest relationship, honor your individuality and partnership, tackle conflicts with care, and commit to growing together.
For more insights, check out this blog post on home insemination, or visit Make a Mom for expert advice on your fertility journey. You can also explore this excellent resource on the IVF process for comprehensive information.
Summary
This article delves into the essential characteristics of a healthy relationship, highlighting the significance of mutual respect, trust, honesty, effective communication, friendship, and celebrating each other’s successes. It also discusses recognizing patterns that could hinder a healthy relationship and offers expert advice on navigating these challenges.
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